IMAGES AND WORDS

A solid recording of memorable songs performed by a brilliant band still very much in their infancy, "Images and Words" is as fun to listen to as it is important to the bourgeoning prog-metal genre.

Every song is a classic in their library and well written, showcasing the developing talent of the group and demonstrating that they are a cut above their peers. However, early Dream Theater still has much in common with the more conventional metal music of the time, which seems to be where most of the complaints about this album come from. While distinctive, this album's sound is still very straight-ahead metal, and won't please fans who don't appreciate hard-rocking. For those of us who do, Dream Theater is undeniably the best "gateway" band into the world of progressive rock-- and this album will likely hook most who listen.

Great melodies, tremendous solos and instrumental passages, smart writing, and of course the soaring voice of James LaBrie make this one a hallmark from the early genre.

Songwriting: 4 Instrumental Performances: 4 Lyrics/Vocals: 4 Style/Emotion/Replay: 5